34 
these really beneficent, though apparently deadly microbes, play a 
very considerable part in the economy of nature, and have been 
not inaptly termed the ‘‘ Scavengers of the Almighty.” 
A short discussion ensued at the close of the paper, and the 
usual vote of thanks was passed. A number of good diagrams 
illustrated the lecture. 
May 12rn, 1891. 
A combined meeting with the Microscopical Society took place at 
which a goodly number of objects were shown and described. The 
Secretary was absent through illness. 
OotosreR 20TH. 
The first meeting of the Session was held, the President in the 
chair. 
A discussion took place on the desirability of amalgamating the 
Microscopical and Natural History Societies. Several members of 
each society had many times expressed a wish for this, and the 
President and Secretary each pointed out the advantages which 
would accrue to both societies becoming one. The Secretary of the 
Microscopical Society (Mr. Kerr) said he thought it very desirable, 
and that his committee was waiting to see the results of this 
meeting. 
It was then proposed by Mr. Walton and seconded by Mr. Ellis: 
—That a communication be forwarded from the Natural History 
Society to the Committee of the Microscopical Society inviting 
them to take steps for the desired amalgamation. Carried 
unanimously. 
Mr. Kerr then read a paper on ‘‘The Hessian Fly,” which was 
full of information and exceedingly interesting. It was illustrated 
by good diagrams and a large number of Microscopical preparations 
which were exhibited at the close. A vote of thanks to the 
lecturer was passed. 
